Stephen's Blogs – Stephen Hon's Blogs (韓啟年)

When I reached Seremban at 10:45PM, I looked up at the moon in the sky, yes it is full moon. In Chinese custom, The Mid Autumn full moon means family reunion.  But  in the modern day, youngsters never think it is so important anymore. You can’t blame them as some are studied oversea, some never able to take time off from their work. Yet there are some do have a lot of free time… but rather choose no to go back home for the reunion.

In the older days, many Chinese families enjoy watching the full moon together in the parks. The families will buy mooncakes, star fruits and pomelo. While watching the moon, their  kids are  playing happily with the lantern. Then, each member of the family will eat a piece of the cake to show their unity.

Even though the moon is full and it is Mid Autumn Festival tonight, I did not see any neighboring  kids playing with the lantern. It so quiet night. What a surprise? I dare to say that some of the kids may not even knew if there is a lantern related to Mid Autumn Festival tonight. Modern day parents that are too busy with their works or business have slowly killed this traditional off their life. I am so pity with the children of these families.

Gone are the days where children get excited during Mid Autumn Festival as they can gather together to carry the lantern and walked around the neighborhood. Gone are the days you see their smiling face & happiness as they can celebrate this festival once a year. Gone are the days where parents sat together singing  the moon song with them. Is this the price to pay for modernization?

Looking at the moon tonight, it have brought back many childhood memories in me.